Every June, the Midwest turns into a vibrant map of rainbow flags, marching bands, drag shows, family festivals, and powerful moments of LGBTQ+ visibility. Pride Month 2025 brings together tradition, advocacy, and joyful celebration across cities and small towns alike.
Whether you’re looking for big city energy or local community charm, here are 12 must-experience Pride events across the Midwest that you shouldn’t miss this summer.
Chicago, IL – Chicago Pride Parade & Fest
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Dates: June 21–22 (Pride Fest), June 29 (Parade)
Chicago’s Pride celebration began in 1970 and has grown into one of the most iconic in the nation. Pride Fest takes place in Northalsted with three stages, drag shows, live music, a Pet Parade, and Youth Pride Space. The Parade on June 29 spans 20 blocks and features over 100 entries. Hosted by the Northalsted Business Alliance.
Event Info
Tip: Best viewing is along Belmont to Addison—arrive early for a front-row spot.
Des Moines, IA – Capital City PrideFest
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Dates: June 6–8
Des Moines’ Capital City Pride has grown significantly since the 1980s and now includes a weekend-long festival with performances, parades, and family zones. Hosted by Capital City Pride. The main parade on June 8 routes past the Iowa State Capitol.
Event Info
Tip: Many events are free but bring cash for local food vendors and merchandise booths.
Columbus, OH – Stonewall Columbus Pride
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Dates: June 13–14
Started in 1981, this event now welcomes over 700,000 attendees and is run by Stonewall Columbus. Events include rooftop parties, drag brunches, and a Saturday parade that showcases diverse LGBTQ+ voices.
Event Info
Tip: Rooftop viewing passes for “Pride on High” sell out early—book ahead.
Minneapolis, MN – Twin Cities Pride
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Dates: June 27–29
Dating back to the 1970s, Twin Cities Pride has evolved into a politically aware and artistically rich celebration. The parade and park festival are hosted by Twin Cities Pride organization in Loring Park.
Event Info
Tip: Use public transit to access Loring Park easily and avoid parking stress.
Springfield, MO – Ozarks Pridefest
Date: June 14
Organized by The GLO Center, Ozarks Pridefest began as a grassroots rally and now includes music, drag, and a colorful parade.
Event Info
Tip: Follow the official Facebook page for live updates and parade route changes.
Grand Rapids, MI – Grand Rapids Pride Fest
Dates: June 21–22
This festival began in 1988 and is hosted by the Grand Rapids Pride Center. The weekend features food trucks, music stages, youth zones, and advocacy booths.
Event Info
Tip: Check the Pride Center’s site for info on free shuttle services.
Cleveland, OH – Pride in the CLE
Date: June 6
Organized by the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland, Pride in the CLE includes music, dance, and cultural events. The city continues LGBTQ+ education into fall through Heritage Day.
Event Info
Tip: Bring a blanket or folding chair for open lawn seating.
Indianapolis, IN – Indy Pride Fest
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Dates: June 14–15
Indy Pride began in the early 90s and has grown into a two-day fest with a parade and the WORD OF MOUTH concert. Run by Indy Pride, Inc., it celebrates diverse queer voices through performance and community events.
Event Info
Tip: Buy your concert tickets early—VIP passes sell quickly.
Omaha, NE – Heartland Pride
Dates: July 12–13
Heartland Pride launched in 2010 and includes Omaha’s biggest LGBTQ+ festival with parades, concerts, and family programming. Organized by Heartland Pride.
Event Info
Tip: Family areas fill fast—arrive early for shaded picnic spots.
Pine City, MN – East Central Minnesota Pride
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Date: June 7
As the first rural Pride in America (launched 2005), this event is a small-town celebration of identity and inclusion. It’s organized by East Central Minnesota Pride.
Event Info
Tip: Parking is limited—carpool if attending from out of town.
Sturgeon Bay, WI – Open Door Pride
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Date: June 28
Organized by Open Door Pride, this Door County event started in 2017 and celebrates diversity with awards, performances, and community booths.
Event Info
Tip: Visit local galleries in the area offering Pride-themed exhibits that weekend.
Fargo, ND – FM Pride
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Date: August (Exact date TBD)
FM Pride spans Fargo and Moorhead and is organized by FM Pride organization. It includes drag shows, a 5K, and cross-state community events.
Event Info
Tip: Book accommodations early—Fargo hotels fill fast for Pride weekend.
How You Can Be Part of Pride
- Attend events in your city or plan a weekend trip
- Volunteer with local LGBTQ+ organizations
- Donate to support ongoing advocacy efforts
- Share event info and educational content online
Each act of participation helps build safer, more visible, and inclusive communities.
Reader Callout
Which of these Pride events are you most excited about—or have attended in the past? Do you think your local community celebrates Pride in a unique way? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you plan to celebrate this year.
Stay connected with ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for local Pride Month updates and community highlights all summer long.
